Though five Warwick House races have already been determined, three races have yet to be decided. Candidates in Districts 23, 26 and 27 will face off on the Nov. 6 ballot. In District 23, incumbent Robert Flaherty chose not to seek re-election. Instead, newcomers K. Joseph Sherkarchi, a Democrat, and Republican John Falkowski will square off. In District 26, incumbent Republican Patricia Morgan will face Democratic challenger Nicholas Denice. And in District 27, newcomer Republican Kyle Pendola is running against incumbent Patricia Serpa. All of the candidates were asked what they think the central issue of the election is, and how they plan to address it.

Faith in our elected officials is the cornerstone to honest government. Honesty, integrity, trustworthiness and compassion are qualities that should come to mind when thinking of government officials. Unfortunately, we as a society are often disappointed by our leaders. I will honor my wife Kelly, children John and Ashley, granddaughter Zayleigh, family, friends and all citizens of Warwick and Rhode Island by serving with the qualities we all should expect and demand. I will work to restore the confidence in government and its elected representatives. Anything less will always be unacceptable.When elected, I will work to reduce all taxes, stimulate business growth, reduce unemployment and re-instate E-Verify. This is my promise to you!

K. JOSEPH SHEKARCHIDemocratFirst-time candidate50Attorney

The central issue in Warwick is the local economy.First, is to prevent any state or local tax increase. Warwick is a community of hardworking families and retired senior citizens just making ends meets. My pledge is to stop tax increases and to find innovative ways to reduce the taxes in Warwick.Second, small business is the backbone of our state’s economy. We need to help small businesses to grow and build in Warwick. Getting the job done, no matter how tough, is what I stand for. In January, my job will be to help the people of Warwick.

This election is about how we turn Rhode Island’s economy around. As an accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner who has provided tax and consulting services for Fortune 500 clients, I understand how jobs are created. We need to invest in our children’s education, reform the EDC, make government more efficient, and fix our crumbling infrastructure. By restoring the historic tax credit program, we will create hundreds of construction, service and manufacturing jobs. The one and only promise I will make is that I will always vote for what is best for the community. I will be a fresh voice at the State House.

PATRICIA MORGANRepublicanIncumbent; State Rep. Since 201062Vice President and Financial Advisor, Clearpath Wealth Management

We can no longer accept having the worst job climate in the country. In the past session, I proposed a pro-growth agenda; a collection of bills that work to correct structural problems in our job climate. They deal with eliminating waste and abuse in government programs, streamlining bureaucratic processes to make them more effective and efficient, lowering property taxes and electric rates, and reforming regulations. I worked hard with all partners, including the small business community, to change our hostile business climate so companies can thrive here and hire our neighbors and our children. I was able to have six bills passed and want to return to try again, with those and more good ideas, to restore financial security to my constituents.

The most pressing issue we face in Rhode Island is that we are a state divided. We are divided on issues of race, class, religion, sexual orientation and politics. The best way to soldier through these challenging times is by working together. Elected officials need to listen to the demands of the people and take action to revive our struggling middle class. The citizens of this state cannot and should not tolerate complacent, self-interested legislators. If our officials are not fulfilling the duties which they were elected to perform, then they need to be promptly shown the door. If elected, I promise to bring integrity, diligence and a middle class voice to the State House. Please open your mind to a new perspective in District 27.

PATRICIA SERPADemocratIncumbent; State Rep. since 2006, West Warwick School Committee, 2000-0664High School Improvement Liaison at Johnson & Wales University

Economic development and job creation must be the primary focus of the General Assembly. We can attract new companies and retain existing businesses by being a more business-friendly state. During my three terms as a legislator, I have devoted a great deal of time and energy working with small business people and passing legislation that they suggested would help them. I was proud that the governor signed my bill into law this year requiring a cost-benefit analysis and review of all existing state regulations in all departments. All departments are required to provide justification for the continuation of an existing regulation and enacting new regulations will require much more scrutiny. I sponsored other bills, including the creation of a web-based system for state and municipal governments to streamline the permitting process and to cut the red tape that is hampering small business. As chairwoman of the House Committee on Small Business, I listen carefully to the business owners and turn their ideas into positive actions that will help to turn our economy around.